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C.Y.O.N
Catholic Youth of Nigeria
History and Establishment
CYON was founded in the 1960s as part of the broader Catholic youth movement post-Vatican II, which emphasized lay involvement. It gained formal structure in the 1970s under the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) to counter secular influences and promote evangelization among Nigerian youth. Today, it's recognized by the Vatican as a key apostolate for youth formation, aligning with Pope Francis's Christus Vivit (2019), which calls for vibrant youth ministry in Africa. Aims and Objectives From official parish descriptions (e.g., Holy Family Catholic Church), CYON's primary goals include: Spiritual Development: Encouraging personal prayer, Bible study, participation in sacraments (e.g., Eucharist, Reconciliation), and apostolic life. Promoting Catholic Identity: Teaching doctrines, traditions, and practices to instill loyalty to the Church's authority. Social and Cultural Engagement: Sponsoring events for welfare, cultural activities, and community service to support youth well-being. Evangelization and Unity: Fostering inter-ethnic harmony in diverse Nigeria, often through outreach amid national distress. Patron Saint: St. Charles Lwanga (Ugandan martyr, patron of African youth), symbolizing courage in faith. Motto: "Let Your Light Shine" (from Matthew 5:16).
